The International Cricket Council (ICC) is making significant changes to its leadership structure! In a move aimed at improving stability and continuity, the ICC has proposed modifying the terms for the chairman and the independent director. Instead of the current system of three terms lasting two years each, the new recommendation is for two terms of three years each, totaling six years. If this change receives approval, Jay Shah, who has been elected unopposed as the new ICC chairman, will serve in this important role until 2030.
Jay Shah is set to officially assume his responsibilities on December 1. This restructuring is expected to bring more consistency to the ICC’s top positions, allowing leaders to focus on long-term planning instead of worrying about elections every couple of years. The previous chairman, Greg Barclay, held the position for two terms of two years after stepping into the role in 2020. The independent director position is currently vacant after the departure of Indra Nooyi, the chair of PepsiCo, who completed her three terms.
In addition to changes in leadership, the ICC Board has successfully approved the women’s future tours program for 2025-2029. This second version of the program is set to be unveiled soon and is a significant step in promoting women’s cricket on the international stage. The Chief Executive Committee of the ICC has also decided to shift the annual ranking updates, moving them from October 1 to May 1. This adjustment allows teams more time to compete, as they must now play at least eight matches instead of six to qualify for the rankings. This change acknowledges the remarkable growth of women’s international cricket.
The ICC is also taking steps to formalize the process for Associate teams to gain One Day International (ODI) status. Currently, there are 16 women’s teams participating in this cycle, consisting of 11 full-member teams and additional Associate teams. Starting with the next ODI World Cup qualifier, the top two Associate teams will earn ODI status, complemented by three more teams that achieve status based on their T20 International (T20I) rankings. This initiative aims to encourage competition and recognize the hard work and dedication of Associate teams.
Furthermore, the ICC has announced an exciting plan to launch two annual T20 tournaments scheduled to take place between 2025 and 2028. This initiative will allow 24 teams to participate in structured competitions leading up to the 16-team ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in 2030. Details about these tournaments will be revealed in the coming days, and there is great anticipation surrounding this development, as it promises to enhance the visibility and competitiveness of women’s cricket worldwide.
As the landscape of cricket evolves, these changes from the ICC signify a commitment to embracing progress and encouraging inclusivity across all levels of the sport. The upcoming years hold promise, not only for the establishment of strong leadership within the ICC but also for the promotion of women’s cricket on a larger scale.
The decision-making process within the ICC reflects a dedicated focus on the future of the sport, ensuring that the best practices are upheld and integrated into the system. With Jay Shah at the helm, the ICC is poised to navigate through these transformative times with a vision that emphasizes growth and stability.
Stay tuned for more updates, as these exciting changes unfold in the world of cricket in the coming months!
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